
Felony Defense Lawyer Prince Georges County — Protecting Your Future
A felony conviction in Prince George’s County carries severe penalties, including years in prison and a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those facing serious criminal charges. Our felony defense lawyer Prince Georges County team, led by former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, understands the local courts and uses that insight to build your case.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Prince George’s County | Maryland General Assembly
In Maryland, felonies are serious crimes classified by statute, such as first-degree assault, theft over $1,500, and drug distribution. These charges are prosecuted in the Prince George’s County Circuit Court and can result in a sentence of over one year in state prison, along with substantial fines and long-term consequences for employment, housing, and voting rights. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, brings extensive experience to every serious criminal charge lawyer Prince George’s County case.
For the official Maryland criminal statutes, refer to the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. Court procedures and locations can be found on the Maryland Courts website for Prince George’s County.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: After arrest, a commissioner sets bail. A bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours if you are detained.
- Preliminary Hearing (if applicable): For some felonies, this hearing determines if there is probable cause to proceed.
- Grand Jury Indictment or Information: The State presents evidence to a grand jury or files a charging document to formally charge you.
- Arraignment in Circuit Court: You appear in Prince George’s County Circuit Court to hear the formal charges and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence and reviews all discovery from the prosecution.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Your lawyer negotiates with the State’s Attorney for a reduction or dismissal, or prepares for a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes a sentence based on Maryland guidelines and any mitigating factors presented by your defense.
In Prince George’s County, a felony conviction can result in a prison sentence of over one year, fines up to $10,000 or more, and a permanent felony record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Felony record, restitution |
| First-Degree Assault | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | None | Violent felony record |
| Controlled Substance Distribution | Felony | Up to 20 years | Varies | Driver’s license suspension possible | Mandatory minimums, asset forfeiture |
| Burglary in the First Degree | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $5,000 | None | Felony record, parole eligibility factors |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. operates on the principle of “Advocacy Without Borders.” With over 120 years of combined attorney experience, our firm has handled more than 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93% firm-wide. Our deep familiarity with Maryland’s court system, including the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney’s Office, allows us to anticipate prosecution strategies and build effective defenses for clients facing felony charges.
Kristen M. Fisher, Of Counsel (Former Prosecutor)
Kristen Fisher, a former Assistant State’s Attorney in Maryland, is the primary felony defense lawyer Prince Georges County contact for the firm. She brings firsthand prosecutorial insight into case construction and courtroom strategy. Admitted to the Maryland and Virginia bars, she focuses her practice on criminal defense in Maryland state and federal courts.
Our team, which includes firm founder and former prosecutor Mr. Sris, has a track record of achieving favorable results in serious cases. For example, we have secured dismissals (Nolle Prosequi) in serious felony charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Maryland location serves clients at Prince George’s County courts, accessible via I-495, I-95, Route 301, and Route 4. We are a felony charge defense lawyer Prince George’s County near Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, and Laurel, also serving Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, and Suitland.
Felony Defense in Prince George’s County: FAQs
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in Maryland?
The main difference is the potential sentence. A misdemeanor carries a maximum sentence of up to one year in jail, while a felony is punishable by imprisonment for over one year, often in a state prison. Felonies also carry more severe long-term collateral consequences.
What happens after a felony arrest in Prince George’s County?
After arrest, you will have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A bail review hearing follows within 24 hours if you are detained. Felony charges are then forwarded to the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney, who decides whether to seek an indictment from a grand jury or file a charging document to proceed in Circuit Court.
Can a felony be reduced to a misdemeanor in Maryland?
Yes, it depends. Through plea negotiations, a prosecutor may agree to reduce a felony charge to a misdemeanor, often in exchange for a guilty plea. This outcome, known as a “plea to a lesser-included offense,” can significantly reduce potential penalties and avoid a felony conviction on your record.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for a felony?
Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. While more common for misdemeanors, it is available for some felonies at the judge’s discretion. Successful completion of probation avoids a formal conviction on your record, and the case may be eligible for expungement after a 3-year waiting period.
How long does a felony case take in Prince George’s County Circuit Court?
It depends on the case’s complexity. A clear felony case may be resolved in 3-6 months, while a complex case going to trial can take a year or more. Maryland’s Hicks date rule requires the state to bring a jailed defendant to trial within 180 days of the first appearance, which can expedite the process.
For more information on related legal matters in our area, see our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page, or learn about defense in neighboring areas like Montgomery County. In Prince George’s County, we also assist with DUI/DWI charges and family law matters.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.
